Effective Treatments For Adult ADHD
Many adults with ADHD are able to relieve the symptoms of this disorder through medication. However, the medication is more effective when combined with other treatment methods.
Medication for adult ADHD typically includes stimulants and nonstimulant medications. Certain medical conditions, such as high blood pressure and depression, may interfere with these medications.
1. Medication
Medication is an integral element of treatment for ADHD, balancing neurotransmitters in the brain to reduce symptoms. The most popular drugs are stimulants that boost dopamine, the chemical that controls concentration and thinking. Examples include amphetamines such as Adderall and Vyvanse, or methylphenidate. Non-stimulant drugs, which boost dopamine levels but have different chemical make-up, are also available and include Atomoxetine (Strattera) and Guanfacine (Intuniv).
The stimulants begin to work in around 30 to 45 minutes and last between 3 and 6 hours. Many people who suffer from ADHD test different medications to find the one that is most effective for them. It is essential to inform about the existence of any other medications you are taking to your physician, as some can interact with stimulants.
The signs of ADHD affect multiple aspects of life from relationships to work performance. They can cause feelings of inadequacy and low self-esteem. People suffering from ADHD may have difficulty completing tasks or projects. They may be able to spend an extended time on a task before moving onto another, leaving behind unfinished work. They may also have difficulty sleeping well and feel groggy or even irritable throughout the day.
When properly taken, stimulant drugs can improve how people who suffer from ADHD perform at school and at home. They can ease the burden at home, and bring people closer to their families and enable them to reach their professional goals. Treatment is not a panacea however it can make a huge difference. The first step is for people suffering from ADHD to speak to their GP or specialist. They will discuss the treatment options that are available to them and recommend a mixture of therapies and medications.
2. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a powerful treatment for ADHD. It helps you to examine and change your negative thinking patterns that hinder your productivity and self-regulation. CBT has been shown to improve symptoms and function particularly when it is combined with stimulant medications. CBT is an objective-oriented therapy that is focused on the moment. It is different from psychodynamic and traditional psychoanalytic therapies, which focus on childhood traumas and experiences.
During therapy, you and your therapist will work together to discover and break down the negative thoughts that lead you to engage in unhealthy habits. Then, you devise strategies to replace them with more beneficial ones. Your therapist can also assist with other issues that can affect your functioning, such as coexisting anxiety disorders or mood disorders, relationship difficulties, job functioning and self-care.
For instance, if always late, your therapist could instruct you to prioritize your tasks and use a planner. They may also advise you to be more cautious about being on time, so that you don't feel stressed or bored waiting for something to start. Other strategies include using a watch or placing clocks around your house and office, or jotting down every day activities in full.
It is essential to not only use these tools to treat ADHD symptoms, but also to incorporate them into your everyday life. To accomplish this, you'll require a seasoned therapist. Ask your doctor for recommendations if you don't already know one. Look up local medical centers, colleges and the ADDitude Directory to find therapists who specialize in ADHD.
You can also find online programs that allow you to test your skills on your own, while still connecting you with a therapist or coach. These programs are typically more affordable, but they may not offer the same level of support that sessions in person could.
3. Counseling
Many people suffering from ADHD struggle with their relationships and at work due to the fact that they fail to complete important tasks or make impulsive decisions. Therapy and coaching can aid in improving communication and provide strategies to manage stress and frustration.
Family therapy and marriage therapy address the issues that arise when a person who suffers from ADHD is in a relationship with someone or at work. These issues can include forgetting important obligations, financial issues and issues with responsibilities in the home or workplace. Therapy can assist you and your spouse or colleagues improve your communication so that you are able to better manage these challenges.
Adult ADHD treatment usually includes a combination of medications as well as cognitive behavioral therapy, and counseling. The medication can help you manage the symptoms, so you can focus on the task at hand. However other therapies provide an alternative to improve your life.
If you suffer from adult adhd, it could take time to find an expert therapist or coach who is specialized in treating the disorder. It's worth it to improve your quality of life. Contact your primary care physician for a referral to an expert in mental health. They'll be able refer you to a specialist who can treat your symptoms and provide counselling to you and your family.
You may be able to participate in a study that offers new solutions to your symptoms. Clinical trials are research studies that examine ways to prevent, diagnose or treat diseases and conditions. Talk to your doctor about the benefits and risks of participating in a clinical study.
4. Occupational Therapy
Occupational therapy is a form of treatment that is tailored to the individual and assists people suffering from ADHD overcome challenges in their daily lives. It helps develop skills that improve their quality of life and increase their ability to engage in meaningful activities within the context of school, work and home, as well as social connections. OT has been shown to be an effective treatment option for adults with ADHD.
In addition to addressing symptoms, an OT will focus on building skills and developing strategies that assist in day-to-day functioning, including time management and the development of self-control. For instance, they might help people suffering from ADHD to break tasks down into smaller pieces and employ visual aids to remind them of their duties. They can also assist in the development of executive functions that are cognitive processes that enable individuals to manage and plan a task and make decisions, and shift focus to new tasks.
Adults with ADHD often struggle with organizing their personal and physical belongings like wallets, books and clothes. OTs can help clients how to manage their belongings and create routines to maintain order. This can include using visual aids, preparing schedules and using a planner. Additionally, add in adults treatment can help clients recognize the connection between their mood and how much they are exposed to sensory stimulation. They will then monitor their sensory diet in order to stay away from stimulants.
OTs can also assist people with ADHD to learn to plan recreation/relaxation into their daily routines, even if it is only for 15 minutes. This will help them release their restless energy and frustrations in a more appropriate way rather than transferring their emotions into relationships with others.
5. Behavioral Coaching
Adults with ADHD might benefit from behavior coaching if they need to tackle certain issues. A coach can work with clients to address topics such as managing finances, establishing relationships, decreasing procrastination, or improving academic performance. Coaches can also help educate clients about the neurobiological, genetic and environmental causes of ADHD. This knowledge can help clients overcome the stigma associated with the condition and lessen self-blame, which is often promoted in popular media.
A good ADHD coach will provide the structure and guidance necessary to make positive changes. They can guide their clients through a reflection process to identify which behaviors are beneficial or detrimental to attaining their goals. They can also teach their client how to change their behavior to improve their time management skills and acquire the necessary skills to achieve their goals. A coach can also provide assistance and encouragement throughout the process.
It's important for clients to be aware that their issues are normal. A professional might be the only person they ever encounter who understands the condition, and it's an enormous relief to know that their problems aren't a result of their character flaws or some personal flaw. This new understanding could allow people from blaming themselves and seek out assistance.
A combination of medication and coaching can be very beneficial for adults with ADHD. The psychiatrist and coach may work together to address many issues, including goal setting, prioritizing work motivation, organizational skills, motivation, and problem solving. Behavioral coaching can also be beneficial for stress, anxiety and impulse control. A coach can assist with goals for education or career as well. The client may decide to continue coaching or to transition to a different kind of mental health professional.